broccoli cheddar quinoa bites

broccoli cheddar quinoa bites

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are bite-sized, protein-packed mini mac and cheese muffins made with quinoa, broccoli and cheddar cheese. Easy to make, great for kids! {gluten free}.

While my family is generally open to most new recipes I make, as with all things ‘new’ there can be a bit of hesitation. Even though we have quinoa on a semi-regular basis, for whatever reason it is still perceived as “new.” However when combined with a favorite flavor combination (broccoli and cheddar cheese) and made into a shape that is always popular (bite-size mini muffin), all hesitation seems to disappear. Understandably so, these Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are addictive! They are like little mac and cheese bites, only made healthier with quinoa and broccoli.

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are quick and easy to make, making them ideal for a weeknight or any time really. The quinoa can be made ahead of time (otherwise that usually takes about 15 minutes to make). Then the mixture takes minutes to whip together and bakes for 15 to 20 minutes. This recipe makes about 3 dozen bites and leftovers reheat perfectly as well. Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a fun and tasty dinner the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

• ¾ cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 1½ cups vegetable broth or water (for cooking quinoa)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely diced
• 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. In a medium sauce pan, combine quinoa and water (or broth) and cook according to package directions. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, eggs, broccoli, onion, garlic, cheese and paprika.
3. Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray mini-muffin tins with cooking spray.
4. Put a heaping tablespoonful of quinoa mixture into prepared muffin cups. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes and then gently remove from pan to cool completely.

Recipe Source: alidaskitchen.com